Llanelli

Dyfed Archaeological Trust (DAT) are working in Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, a town which is renowned for its history of industry. Unloved Heritage; Llanelli focuses on the rapid industrial growth of the 18th and 19th centuries. Llanelli, in fact, became known as ‘Tinopolis’ because of the vast quantities of coal, iron and tinplate it produced. Young people are investigating how the area declined during the second half of the 20th century and how this led to the abandonment, dereliction and demolition of large numbers of industrial buildings.

Through art, photography and a whole range of other methods they will also explore how the recent large-scale out-of-town development has left many of the old parts of the town centre run-down, unused, unloved and neglected. The young people will take part in a variety of different activities and have amazing experiences – from learning archaeological skills to holding their own art exhibitions and gaining their Arts Award. In local partnerships with Llanelli Town Council, Carmarthenshire Youth Service, Carmarthenshire Libraries and the Fusion project Unloved Heritage; Llanelli will help young people to understand and value the rich historic past that surrounds them.